At 24,000 km², the Caledonian Lagoon is a wonderful playground for those who want to enjoy the pleasures of boating. Caledonians also love it, and spend their free time as soon as they can on outings that last from a few hours to several days. Experienced and beginner sailers will love the countless ways to enjoy the Pacific Ocean off the coast of New Caledonia.

Fishing in the North

Very few people venture to the lagoon in the far north of the Grande Terre, in the Poum region. This is an ideal area for all those who love fishing around the reef, as well as in the open sea. There is an almost 100% guarantee of catching something!

Nouméa, the capital city of New Caledonia is on the ocean. Several bays extend along the city, providing magnificent beaches and points of view. Besides its natural features, Nouméa also has very attractive cultural offerings for tourists who choose to visit there.

From Ouvéa to the Isle of Pines, passing through Lifou, Tiga and Maré, the five islands bordering the Mainland, Grande Terre to the East are yet more gems to discover. From the blue hole of Hanawa at Ouvéa to the Warrior’s Leap at Wakone on Maré, via the Jokin Cliffs at Lifou or the Oro Bay on the Isle of Pines, let yourself be amazed!

The West Coast of the mainland (Grande Terre) shows off a great variety of scenery from its northern tip down to the area surrounding Nouméa. Characterised by both large spaces favouring cattle farming and a lagoon of stunning beauty, the West Coast is also host to a rich cultural heritage.

The central mountain range of the Mainland (Grande Terre) is a natural boundary, overlooking the very different faces of the East and West Coasts. Exposed to strong winds and therefore more humid, the eastern coast offers scenery with sumptuous flora. With a population of largely Melanesian origin, the East Coast has also retained a particularly charming flavour of authenticity.

The Great South, comprising the Mont-Dore and Yaté municipalities, is the most symbolic region for New Caledonia’s three main colours: blue, green and red. From the rainforest to the mining lands there are a thousand shades of green, while the ocean offers a dazzling palette of blues. But if one colour dominates the Great South, it is the specific red of its ground.

Taste New Caledonia

#TasteNewCaledonia

There are unique and extraordinary flavours to be found in each of the destinations’ varied regions, whether they be from the blue waters of the crystal clear lagoon (the world’s largest), the more rural ‘cowboy country’ in the west, the Gallic hub of Noumea or the traditional Kanak culture in the east. New Caledonia’s sundry landscapes deliver delicacies, fresh produce and meals that will tantalise the taste buds and are true testimonial to the blend of cultures united on the islands.

Bon appetit!

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The proximity of New Caledonia to Australia is one of its major appeals, less than two hours from Brisbane, three hours from Sydney and four hours from Melbourne, Francophiles can feast on the escargot (snails) of the Isle of Pines, or indulge the senses with dishes like gratin of mangrove crab, local venison, dauphine potatoes and croquettes at a traditional French restaurant in Noumea. Those with a more adventurous palette are encouraged to explore the flavours of the local Kanak culture, where they can discover the ‘bougna’, a dish typically made from tubercles, coconut milk and fish. In local markets, French delicacies such as cheeses, wines, fresh-baked pastries and chocolates will awaken the palate – and all this just a few hours away.

Whether it’s fine dining, eating with the locals or enjoying wine or cheese tastings, there is something for everyone in New Caledonia. Freshly caught seafood can be barbecued by the white sand beaches, while thirsty travellers can sip on cocktails made from the assortment of mouth-watering fruits found on the islands, including coconuts, mangoes, passionfruit and papaya. Discover our top 10 foodie experiences in New Caledonia which will make your trip even more memorable. Discover more…

Food Festivals galore

Festivals for treasured local harvests of vanilla, avocados, yams, prawns and lobsters are all celebrated. In fact, food is so well appreciated in New Caledonia that every meal is a feast and a food-orientated event of some kind or other is almost impossible to miss. Discover more…

Shop like a local

While for many, a true gourmet holiday may involve enjoying the local cuisine in top eateries, it’s also fun to take a DIY approach. This way you can experience local food in a different way, by preparing your own gourmet feast. In Nouméa it’s easy to shop for ingredients to prepare yourself, and to buy ready-made meals to heat and eat. There’s also ample opportunity to pack a delicious picnic to enjoy sprawled on a beach somewhere in the glorious sunshine. Discover more…

The perfect picnic spot

So, you’re loaded up with a basket of gourmet food and wine, it’s only fitting you now find a setting that is as spectacular as the picnic you are about to enjoy. Here are some suggestions… Discover more…

New Caledonia offers cooking classes focusing of French or traditional dishes. Take an unforgettable experience as you discover the diverse taste of New Caledonia. Experience the South Pacific charm and Parisian delights of Noumea with this 4 night package.

Ideally located on Anse Vata Bay, and only 10 minutes drive from the CBD and main shopping centre, Ramada Hotel & Suites is a 4 star hotel offering 127 elegant, well designed rooms & suites, all with at least one balcony.

Be active or relax, Noumea and Isle of Pines offer diversity, culture and colour. Hike through the Blue River National Park and North of Yate towards the ‘Forbidden Coast’ or take the challenging Great North track trek with authentic Kanak cultural encounters along the magnificent coastline to the mountains.

Hotel Beaurivage is the only hotel located on Lemon Bay, popular for trendy bars and restaurants. The beach is across the road, and the local bus stops outside the door. Downtown Noumea is located 10 minutes away.

Indulge in the flavours of New Caledonia on a 6 day Le Très Bon Gourmet Tour, hosted by the award-winning Chef Christophe Gregoire himself. Be wined and dined as you meet artisan chocolatiers, sip coffee brewed from local beans, visit the local fresh produce market, take cooking classes.

Indulge in the rich gastronomy of New Caledonia with our 5-night gourmet package. Stay for 5 nights at the fabulous, 5-star Le Meridien Noumea, enjoy a tour of local markets and learn how to cook a local cuisine.